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The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Femseven is a transdermal hormone replacement therapy (HRT) patch containing estradiol hemihydrate, a synthetic form of the naturally occurring estrogen hormone. Designed for postmenopausal women, it helps alleviate moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms such as hot flushes and night sweats. By delivering a steady dose of estradiol through the skin, Femseven offers a convenient and consistent alternative to oral HRT. The transdermal application minimizes first-pass metabolism by the liver, contributing to better bioavailability and a reduced risk of certain hepatic side effects.
Fact Table | |
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Formula | C18H24O2·0.5H2O |
License | MHRA (UK), EMA (EU) approved |
Bioavailability | Approximately 20% (transdermal route avoids first-pass metabolism) |
Legal status | Prescription only |
Chemical Name | Estradiol hemihydrate |
Elimination half-life | ~13–20 hours (transdermal) |
Dosage (Strength) | 25 mcg/day, 37.5 mcg/day, 50 mcg/day, 75 mcg/day, 100 mcg/day |
Pregnancy | Contraindicated |
Brands | Femseven, FemSeven Sequi, FemSeven Conti |
Protein binding | 98% (mainly to albumin and sex hormone-binding globulin) |
PubChem CID | 5757 |
MedlinePlus | a605021 |
ChEBI | 16469 |
ATC code | G03CA03 |
DrugBank | DB00783 |
KEGG | D00103 |
Routes of administration | Transdermal (patch) |
Apply one Femseven patch to clean, dry, and intact skin on the lower abdomen or buttocks, avoiding the waistline. The patch should be replaced every seven days, alternating the application site to avoid skin irritation. Ensure the patch is firmly pressed onto the skin for at least 10 seconds to secure adhesion. Do not apply to broken or irritated skin, and avoid exposing the patch to direct sunlight or heat sources, which may alter the release profile. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions precisely for optimal therapeutic outcomes.
Each Femseven patch contains estradiol hemihydrate, which is released at a controlled rate of 50 micrograms per 24 hours. Inactive components include acrylate copolymer adhesive, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer film, and polyester backing. These excipients support the consistent transdermal delivery of the active hormone over the treatment period.
Use Femseven with caution in patients with risk factors for cardiovascular disease, including hypertension and hyperlipidemia. Women with a personal or family history of hormone-sensitive cancers should undergo thorough evaluation before initiating therapy. Periodic clinical assessments are recommended to monitor therapy appropriateness. Smoking, particularly in women over 35, may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects. Femseven should be discontinued if there are signs of thrombotic disorders, jaundice, or significant elevation in blood pressure.
Femseven is contraindicated in individuals with a history of breast cancer, estrogen-dependent neoplasia, active or recent thromboembolic disorders (such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism), undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, and severe liver dysfunction. It should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Patients with known hypersensitivity to estradiol hemihydrate or any excipients in the formulation must avoid this product.
Common side effects associated with Femseven may include:
Serious adverse effects such as thromboembolism, stroke, and hormone-dependent malignancies are rare but require immediate medical attention.
What is Femseven used for?
Femseven is a hormone replacement therapy (HRT) patch that contains estradiol hemihydrate, a form of estrogen. It is primarily used to treat symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and to help prevent osteoporosis in postmenopausal women with an increased risk of fractures.
How does Femseven work?
Femseven delivers a steady dose of estradiol through the skin and into the bloodstream, helping to restore declining estrogen levels in postmenopausal women. This hormonal balance helps relieve menopausal symptoms and supports bone health.
How is Femseven applied?
Femseven is a transdermal patch applied once weekly to clean, dry, hairless skin on the lower abdomen or buttocks. It should not be placed on or near the breasts, and the application site should be rotated with each new patch to avoid skin irritation.
What are the common side effects of Femseven?
Common side effects include skin irritation at the application site, breast tenderness, headache, nausea, abdominal pain, and mood changes. These effects are often mild and may improve with continued use, but persistent symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Who should not use Femseven?
Femseven should not be used by women who have a history of breast cancer, estrogen-sensitive cancers, unexplained vaginal bleeding, active or past blood clots, liver disease, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Does Femseven increase the risk of blood clots or cancer?
Like other forms of estrogen therapy, Femseven may increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, and certain cancers, particularly breast and endometrial cancer. The risks vary by individual and duration of use, so it’s important to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed.
Can Femseven be used alone or with other hormones?
Femseven contains only estrogen, so for women with an intact uterus, it is usually prescribed along with a progestogen to reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia or cancer. Women who have had a hysterectomy may use it alone.
What should I do if a Femseven patch falls off?
If a patch falls off, try to reapply it. If it does not stick, replace it with a new patch immediately and continue your regular schedule. Do not double up on patches to make up for a missed dose.
Are there any drug interactions with Femseven?
Femseven may interact with medications that affect liver enzymes, such as some anticonvulsants and antibiotics, which can alter estrogen levels. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking.
How should Femseven be stored and disposed of?
Femseven patches should be stored at room temperature away from direct heat or sunlight. Used patches should be folded in half with the sticky sides together and safely discarded in the trash, away from children and pets. Do not flush patches down the toilet.